Springbok scrum coach Daan Human has declined to engage with Australian coach Joe Schmidt’s claim that world champions often benefit from favourable refereeing decisions.

Schmidt’s comment alluded to James Lowe’s disallowed try in Ireland’s first test match of the series against the Springboks last month.

The Springboks themselves experienced a similar situation during the Rugby World Cup final when Aaron Smith appeared to score a try for New Zealand, only for Ardie Savea to be penalized for a knock-on at the lineout. Additionally, the All Blacks finished the match with 14 players after Sam Cane’s red card for a head-on collision with Jesse Kriel.

When asked about Schmidt’s statement, Human focused on the team’s adaptation to the new rules. “I can tell you one thing, we, at the moment, just trying to adapt to the new rules,” said Human during the online press conference on Monday. 

“It is referees’ calls, not ours.”  

Interestingly, Luke Pearce, the referee for the Ireland-South Africa first match, has been appointed to officiate the Springboks’ first Rugby Championship encounter against Australia in Brisbane on Saturday.

Human acknowledged the potential for fluctuating fortunes in terms of refereeing calls but maintained his focus on adapting to the game’s new dynamics. “Sometimes, I suppose, some calls go for you and some games goes against you,” added Human. 

“But, I mean, I’m not going to comment on what he said. If sometimes we have calls in our favour, I’m not going to comment on that.  

“What we have been doing at the moment is just try to adapt as soon as possible to the new rules of the game. 

“We must adapt to the game the way the referee is handling it.”  

Meanwhile, the Springboks face a formidable challenge in Brisbane, where they haven’t secured a victory since 2013. Human confirmed that the team is aware of this record but emphasized their determination to focus on the present.

“Obviously, we are aware of that record they have against us, which is great for them,” he said. 

“But I don’t think…none of us have been part of that coaching staff on that long ago. So, it’s history. Saturday’s game will be history. All I can tell you on our side, we just want to do everything well to be prepare to face them and maybe having a good game again. Come Saturday, we know that we have to pitch up – obviously physically and put everything in place to perform against them.”

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will announce his squad for the match against Australia on Tuesday.